Jersey’s native green lizard has been in decline in recent years due to a number of factors which include changes in agriculture and land use. Pollution, drainage and furze fires have all contributed to the fall in numbers. Green lizards also have their natural predators and are preyed upon by a number of animals including cats and birds, kestrels in particular.
In 2006 the States of Jersey Environment Division launched a series of biodiversity action plans for rare, threatened, declining or significant species to Jersey with the green lizard being one of them. The green lizard biodiversity action plan will be implemented by the Environment Division, Durrell and the Jersey Amphibian and Reptile Group (JARG). The plan lists a set of actions to ensure the survival of the green lizard. Just some of these actions are;
- To protect the species
- To safeguard and manage known sites
- To continue to monitor and research the lizard population
- Introducing financial support through the Countryside Renewal Scheme to maintain or improve suitable habitats.
Walkers has committed:
- to be the champion of the green lizard for three years
- to design, produce and donate a limited edition green lizard toy which will be sold to raise money for the project
- to provide administrative, marketing and public relations support
- to assist the Environment Division in maintaining the green lizard habitat by gorse and bracken clearing.
Download the Green Lizard Biodiversity Plan in PDF format.
© Peter Double
